Research Associate, Applied Cell Line Development & Customer Programs

Prolific Machines is ushering in a new era of biotechnology with light. Our first-of-its-kind optogenetic platform delivers unprecedented control, precisely guiding cellular behavior when and where it matters most. Unlike existing tools used to control biology, our technology enables dynamic, tunable control over virtually any cellular function in any cell type. We're enabling partners to unlock robust efficiency, quality, and reproducibility advantages across the most complex pharmaceuticals and therapeutic proteins. Prolific is supported by leading investors, including Bill Gates’s Breakthrough Energy Ventures, Mayfield and SOSV. We are seeking a skilled Research Associate to join our Cell Line Development team, contributing technically and scientifically to the advancement of multiple projects while bringing innovation and new perspectives to our workflows. This role will be based on-site in Emeryville, CA and will report to a Principal Scientist of the Cell Line Development department. Responsibilities:

Own and drive workflows using mammalian cell culture, primarily working with suspension HEK and suspension CHO

Generate stable cell lines via transfection (ie electroporation) and selection as well as serving as the primary technical owner of many genetically distinct cell lines at once

Handle protein production workflows at different scales - deep well plates and shake flasks, potentially including small scale bioreactors such as the Ambr system

Execute downstream readouts such as cell counting (Celleca, nucleocounter), metabolite measurements (Nova / CEDEX), Octet BLI, flow cytometry

Perform single cell isolation using methods such as FACS, cell deposition, or Beacon

Execute plasmid cloning and molecular biology techniques including PCR and ddPCR

Conduct experiments independently, collect and analyze data in a timely manner, maintain detailed documentation in electronic lab notebooks, and data visualization and presentation in team meetings

Requirements:

Bachelor's degree in Biology, Bioengineering, Biotechnology, or a related field, with relevant laboratory experience in mammalian cell culture. Candidates will be considered at the Research Associate I, Research Associate II, and Senior Research Associate levels based on their experience, technical proficiency, and demonstrated independence.

Proficient in mammalian cell culture, preferably with experience in cell line development, and are well versed in sterile technique, transfection, and clone isolation

Comfortable with readouts such as cell counting, metabolite measurement, Octet BLI and flow cytometry

Comfortable with developing and proposing experimental plans, conducting experiments, and troubleshooting analytical techniques and methodologies

Proficient in precisely following protocols, designing and executing experiments independently, and managing multiple tasks in a fast-paced setting

Self-starter who’s committed to team science and effective independent work

Strong organizational skills with an interest in creating and maintaining organizational infrastructure for both lab experiments and with data analysis

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills

Excitement for working in a fast-paced startup environment and comfort with evolving project scopes and shifting priorities

We recognize that strong candidates may not meet every preferred qualification. If you have a solid foundation in mammalian cell culture, a commitment to high-quality laboratory work, and enthusiasm for learning, we encourage you to apply.

Benefits: Generous equity package in an early stage company, retirement plan with company contribution, flexible PTO with healthy time off minimums, company-covered medical, dental, and vision insurance, life and disability insurance, career coaching, mental health support, free team lunches everyday, great snacks, and companywide social events! Diversity: Prolific Machines values diverse perspectives, backgrounds, experiences, and ideas. We are committed to building an inclusive workplace where all employees can bring their authentic selves to work and have equal opportunities to succeed. Prolific Machines is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Location: The San Francisco Bay Area (Emeryville, CA)